Packard Forum Index » Post-War (1946-54)

What is the best method for cleaning the original cloth headliner in a 1951 Packard? I know originally it was recommended to just use soapy bubbles and dab the headliner.

John

If it is the original headliner better just leave it alone. My 51 Packard 200 has the original liner and we never make eye contact.

This old thread might be helpful.

A very informative link Mal. Thanks
I'll have to do a bit of exploring on this. Mine is intact but looks mighty dirty.

John

John, please let us know what you decide to do and let us know your results. My headliner is as you describe but I'm terrified of touching it!

Mark, I am too..... John

What and how much are you cleaning off?
Is it just dust, something discoloring like cigarette smoke stains, water stains, spills, etc? Or is it discolored from heat or light (I called this "toasted)- which you won't remove but may lighten dark areas but won't match overall as some of the damaged nap is removed. But a headliner will see strong temperature from the roof side and maybe worse behind than the underside.
I'm not 100% for this model but would suspect it's a nap cotton which is common in the post war period with the hoop supports.
Depending how sun/heat damaged it is, it might clean without damage but if it easily tears or has tears and isn't pliable, you're probably better off replacing, if its really dirty and you can't live with it.
Vacuum first with light pressure and a soft brush attachment on a strong vacuum to get the loose stuff off. You want to "ripple" the fabric as you sweep across to dislodge dirt. Use a shop vac or vacuum with alot of suction. You are pulling air through the cloth in reverse to dislodge surface particulate. Then use cleaners.
Best to try a small area for the cleaner that's not noticeable, like behind or top side of sunshade, rear c pillar, etc. There's various upholstery cleaners out there.
I've had best luck using Resolve carpet cleaner and Tough Stuff foam upholstery cleaner for most automotive interiors. The resolve is better for spots treatment and the foam for large area/overall cleaning. I use on all types including marine, except leather. No water is used and you blot up what you put on with paper towel or cloth towel. Water based cleaners will loosen/sag the cotton when wet but may dry tight which if it's brittle can tear. These can be used with little pressure, but surface has to withstand the wipe off. Sometimes you can "flood" the stain off with repeated sprays. Usually the resolve will lift most any stain and float it to the surface for easy removal. Repeat as needed.
I don't like steam cleaning for this, but may work if wool. Steam can melt/liquify what's on surface and drive it deeper. But can remove wrinkles after cleaning. Consult a upholstery shop/cleaner or detailer if you care not to try yourself.

Thanks for the tips Jim. The headliner is the cloth type so common in cars of this vintage. Not sure how much is dirt and how much is stain.

John

I would like to suggest one additional possibility which would be to spray paint the headliner. Many auto paint stores will mix the color you wish and then put it into a spray can for you. I have seen this done and it does not put any pressure on the headliner and in the two cases, it made the headliner look much better than it did before. Ernie, caretaker of 'Miss Prudence' a 1949 deluxe.

Hmmm, I've heard of coloring vinyl. I take it, it is a special type of paint?